How to Prevent Skin Cancer

Sun avoidance is the best defense against developing skin cancer and early detection is the surest way to a cure.

What can you do to prevent skin cancer?

• Wear hats and tightly-woven protective clothing whenever possible.
• Avoid the mid-day sun. Seek shade between 10:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M. when ultraviolet rays are most intense.
• Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF of at least 15. Wear sunscreen every day, even in the winter. Be sure to reapply sunscreen every two hours and reapply after sweating and swimming. We recommend that you apply sunscreen liberally. Purchase sunscreens containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, avobenzone, or mexoryl to block UVA rays.
• Avoid tanning beds.

What can I do to prevent serious health problems do to skin cancer?

• Perform monthly inspections of your body and seek evaluation if you notice any new, changing or symptomatic growths or moles.
• Patients at higher risk for skin cancer are advised to have periodic skin examinations done by dermatology professional.